Jul 11 2009
Darrell “Shifty” Powers
Over the past few weeks the media has obsessed about the death of a famous entertainer, Michael Jackson. A man who’s sole contribution to society was some music, videos and lurid gossip. Another rich man who managed to escape justice. Meanwhile a true American hero passed unnoticed.
On June 17, 2009 Darrell Powers died. He was the sharpshooter who’s sacrifices and service was immortalized in the series “Band of Brothers”.
Bravery – and dignity – was a constant, running thread in the life of “Shifty” Powers, both during and after his life as an Army sharpshooter in the actual “Band of Brothers.”
During the war, he fought brutal battles against the German army across France and Belgium.
After the war, Powers served as an eloquent representative for the men he fought with: At one point during the “Band of Brothers” mini-series, he appeared on camera to talk in moving, humane fashion about his grim but necessary task during the war – killing the enemy. (Source: Tri City News)
Sergeant Powers was one of those fortunate combat veterans who was able to make his peace after the war. He did not hold a grudge and he saw his enemies during World War II for what they were, young men called to serve, as he had been. Men who did the best they could to win a war.
In the second-to-last episode of “Band of Brothers,” an HBO miniseries that documented Easy Company’s wartime exploits, Powers spoke on camera about the soldiers he fought and also hinted at the intrinsic tragedy of combat.
“We might have had a lot in common. He might’ve liked to fish, you know, he might’ve liked to hunt,” Powers said. “Of course, they were doing what they were supposed to do, and I was doing what I was supposed to do.
“But under different circumstances, we might have been good friends.” (Source: Roanoke Times)
Rest in peace brother. The legacy you left behind will never be forgotten.
